Hundreds of thousands of bags of popular Zapp’s and Dirty brand potato chips have been recalled across the United States after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified the action as a Class I recall, the agency’s highest level of health risk. The classification indicates there is a reasonable probability that consuming the affected products could lead to serious health consequences due to potential salmonella contamination, although no illnesses have been reported so far.
The recall, originally announced by Utz Quality Foods in May, affects more than 650,000 bags of potato chips sold nationwide. According to the company, the affected products were seasoned with dry milk powder supplied by a third party manufacturer that may have been contaminated with salmonella. Although testing conducted before production returned negative results, Utz said it chose to issue the recall as a precautionary measure to protect consumers.
Among the affected products are several varieties of Zapp’s Bayou Blackened Ranch, Salt and Vinegar, and Big Cheezy potato chips, as well as Dirty brand Salt and Vinegar, Maui Onion, and Sour Cream and Onion flavors. Consumers are being urged to check the best by dates and batch codes listed in the FDA recall notice, avoid consuming the products if they are included in the recall, and dispose of them or contact the manufacturer for a refund. Retailers have also been instructed to remove the affected products from store shelves.
The recall is part of a wider food safety investigation involving dry milk powder sourced from California Dairies, an ingredient that has also prompted recalls of other food products. While no confirmed cases of illness have been linked to the recalled chips, health officials continue to stress the importance of taking precautionary measures due to the potential risks associated with salmonella contamination.
Salmonella is one of the most common causes of foodborne illness and can trigger symptoms such as diarrhea, fever, stomach cramps, nausea and vomiting within several days of consuming contaminated food. Although most healthy individuals recover without complications, young children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems are at a significantly higher risk of developing severe or even life threatening infections.
The FDA’s decision to classify the recall at its highest risk level highlights the importance of food safety and preventive action, even in cases where no illnesses have been reported. Consumers are encouraged to remain vigilant by checking recall notices, verifying product information, and following official guidance to minimize potential health risks.
